Survival began with a song
Bessie
The story of legendary blues performer, Bessie Smith, who rose to fame during the 1920s and '30s.
Dee ReesDirector
Christopher ClevelandScreenplay
Bettina GiloisScreenplay
Dee ReesScreenplay
Horton FooteStory
Dee ReesStory
Top Billed Cast
Queen Latifah
Bessie Smith
Tory Kittles
Clarence
Tika Sumpter
Lucille
Neko Parham
Rehearsal Director
Onira Tarés
Chorus Girl
Jhoni Davis
Chorus Girl
Jim R. Coleman
Host
Mo'Nique
Ma Rainey
Jennifer Sears
Ma's Main Girl
Charles S. Dutton
William 'Pa' Rainey
